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Insect Bites
Biting insects can cause anything from a small raised lump to a more severe allergic reaction such as sweet itch ( also known as recurrent seasonal pruritus).
Horses at risk
Any horse can get bitten, grey horses are especially susceptible to sweet Itch which is the term used when a horse has an allergic reaction to the saliva produced by midges biting the skin causing the more extreme skin itching to occur.
Symptoms
- Raised lumps on the surface of the skin.
- Sores on the surface of the skin.
- Itching of the skin
- Bald patches.
- Bleeding bald patches.
- Itching of the mane and tail.
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Treatment
Horses who suffer from reactions to insect bites can be helped by careful management during the spring and summer months when the insects are at their worst.
- Keeping your horse stabled during times when insects are at their worst.
- Wearing a fly rug to cover up the susceptible skin.
- Using insect repellant.
- Keep in contact with your vet for any new treatment developments that may be appropriate.
- Turn your horse out away from heavily infested areas such as next to a stream, lake or near cattle.
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